Arsene Wenger refuses to ‘rule out’ permanent deal for Yossi Benayoun

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has admitted that he will not 'rule out' offering Yossi Benayoun a permanent contract after his season-long loan deal from Chelsea expires.

The former Liverpool midfielder made the temporary switch to the Emirates on the final day of the transfer window.

The 31-year-old made his first start for the Gunners in a 1-1 draw against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on Tuesday.

"It's too early to say at the moment [whether we will sign him], but I don't rule it out," ESPN quotes Wenger as saying.

"I want him to contribute as much as he can to the rest of the squad like every other player - not more, not less."

Meanwhile, Arsenal travel to Ewood Park on Saturday to face Blackburn Rovers in the Premier League.